Herb Silverman and the BYB Sportsmanship Award

Herbert M. Silverman was a lifelong resident of Brookline and a "model citizen" for Brookline Youth Baseball. Raised by his aunts and uncles after his parents died in the flu epidemic of 1918 Herb volunteered his time with many local organizations including charities, Cub Scouts, and the PTA. However, no activity brought him more satisfaction than his involvement with Brookline Little League (as BYB was known at the time).

Beginning in the early 1950s, Herb served as an assistant coach, as head coach of the Cardinals for more than 10 years, and as a league officer in various capacities. As a coach, he emphasized fundamentals and practice rather than winning at all cost, and he expected the same effort from all of his players: that they work hard to improve and do their best. And while he knew that he couldn't demand talent, he did demand good sportsmanship not only from his players but also from spectators.

Herb believed that Little League was meant to be fun and should teach not just baseball but also many of the skills that are important later in life: responsibility, teamwork, trust, work ethic and, of course, good sportsmanship. Each year BYB grants the Herb Silverman sportsmanship Award to a player who's participation in youth baseball best reflects the values and code of conduct espoused by Mr. Silverman.